This week, Women in Solar+ Europe gives the voice to Hollie Carek, General Manager UK & Global Head of Partner Marketing Strategy at British OpenSolar. She encourages women to invest in relationships and networks while building a group of colleagues and mentors who can support growth and open doors. “
Gender diversity and inclusion bring significant benefits to the solar energy sector. Having diverse teams introduces broader perspectives, improving product design and strategic decision-making, both of which are critical in a rapidly evolving industry like ours. As a sector that continues to grow rapidly, encouraging gender-diverse teams also helps address labor shortages and attract new talent.
Having a diverse team is not only the right thing to do, it’s a strategic advantage that strengthens innovation and growth in the solar industry. And honestly, we’re just getting started.
The overall resilience and success of the sustainable energy sector depends on diversity, equality and inclusivity. Without this transition, we will not have the wealth of perspectives and creativity that this transition requires. Accelerating the energy transition means deepening the talent pool and closing skills gaps by attracting and retaining underrepresented groups. A DEI-led workforce not only builds stronger teams; it creates a sector that is resilient to the ups and downs of the market that we know all too well as the ‘solar coaster’.
Looking back on my career, I was really lucky. The companies I have worked for have had powerful women in leadership roles leading the way in a male-dominated space. Seeing these women succeed illuminated what is possible and inspired me to go further. I have also focused on building a strong peer network of allies, both inside and outside my organization, that I can lean on for support and guidance, especially when I have felt male oppression from the industry.
When it comes to dealing with prejudice or skepticism, I can certainly hold my own. Any skeptic would quickly be proven wrong by my reputation and my allies. I have built a career on consistent, quality and credible work, and I have been able to prove the impact it has had. Putting together a network of ‘cheerleaders’ also means that I never feel alone. Those supporters, people who defend your name in spaces where you are not, make the difference.
Mentorship has also been a game changer for me. I was so lucky that Liz Cammack (née MacFarlane), the winner of the 2024 “Woman in Solar” award, was my line manager at Segen. If you don’t know Liz, are you even in the solar industry?! She founded Zenex, was Sales Director and MD at Segen and then became Global Advisor to the Board for Labora, while serving on the government’s Solar Taskforce, serving on the board of Solar Energy UK and raising three children. Imagine thinking women can’t achieve great things in the solar industry when this woman is paving the way for you. Having her as a mentor has shown me what leadership, resilience, and balance can really look like.
At OpenSolar, inclusion is embedded in our strategy and values, it is something we live and breathe every day. Because we are a remote-oriented company, we can hire the right people for the role regardless of geographic location. This has allowed us to build a truly diverse, inclusive and talented workforce. I also personally mentor two amazing women within the organization, supporting their growth, providing a friendly ear, and empowering them to become the next leaders. Consistent and visible demonstration of DEI from the top down creates a safe and inclusive culture within an organization.
Of course, there still remains a certain gender dynamic in our sector. We joked about this last month at the WISEu Cuppa Club, that in a room full of older men and women, when it comes time to take notes or make a cup of tea, heads still tend to turn towards the women in the room, even in this day and age. One woman in the session said she always anticipates this dynamic by nominating someone to take notes and prepare a drink before the meeting starts. It sounds simple, but controlling those little moments takes strength.
To truly retain and develop diverse talent, organizations must go beyond recruitment. It’s about creating an environment where people can thrive and progress on equal terms. This must start from the top down, with inclusive leadership and accountability, setting clear expectations and modeling inclusive behavior. This must then trickle down into transparent promotion processes and fair leadership programs. We also spoke at Cuppa Club about psychological safety, active listening and 360-degree feedback loops – tools that help people feel like they belong and can express their opinions without fear of judgement.
If I could give one piece of advice to a young woman entering the solar and renewable energy industry today, it would be to enter with confidence. You deserve your place at the table and should never be afraid to speak up. Second, invest in relationships and networks. Create a group of colleagues and mentors who can support your growth and open doors for you.
I would have no hesitation in recommending a career in this industry to any young woman. It’s full of purpose, innovation and opportunity, and when we bring more diverse voices into the mix, we don’t just make solar stronger; we make it unstoppable.
Hollie Carek is General Manager for the UK and Global Head of Partner Marketing at OpenSolar. In her role, Hollie leads OpenSolar’s UK operations and global partner marketing initiatives, working with key industry players to increase the reach and impact of the platform. With a degree in economics, a robust background in advertising and six years of experience in the renewable energy sector, Hollie excels at building strategic partnerships with global manufacturers, distributors and financial partners. Her expertise is instrumental in advancing OpenSolar’s mission to accelerate global solar adoption by equipping installers with cutting-edge, cost-effective tools that fuel industry growth.
Interested in participating Hollie Carek and other female market leaders and experts at Women in Solar+ Europe? More information: www.wiseu.network
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the author pv magazine.
This content is copyrighted and may not be reused. If you would like to collaborate with us and reuse some of our content, please contact: editors@pv-magazine.com.
